Prof. Xuechao Zhai | Chiral symmetry breaking | Best Researcher Award

Nanjing University of Science and Technology | China

Xuechao Zhai is a Professor and doctoral advisor at the Department of Applied Physics at Nanjing University of Science and Technology, China. His primary research focuses on condensed matter theory, semiconductor physics, and quantum device design. He is well known for his work on topological phase transitions, quantum transport in low-dimensional structures, and spin and valley control. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to quantum information encoding mechanisms, enhancing low-power quantum devices.

👨‍🎓Profile

Scopus 

ORCID

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Xuechao Zhai’s academic journey began at Xiangtan University, where he obtained his B.S. in Physics in 2009. He continued his studies at Nanjing University, earning his Ph.D. in Physics in 2014. His early academic years were marked by a keen interest in quantum mechanics and material science, which laid the foundation for his pioneering research in condensed matter physics.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Following his doctoral studies, Zhai took on several roles at Nanjing University of Posts & Telecommunications, where he served as Lecturer (2014–2017) and Associate Professor (2017–2021). His expertise led him to a Visiting Scholar position at the Kavli Institute at Delft University of Technology (2019–2020), where he collaborated on international research projects in the fields of semiconductor physics and quantum transport. In 2021, Zhai was appointed Professor at Nanjing University of Science & Technology, where he continues to mentor graduate students and advance his research in quantum devices.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Zhai’s research focuses primarily on topological phase transitions and quantum transport in low-dimensional structures. His work in spin and valley control and the design of quantum devices has significantly influenced the understanding of spintronics and valleytronics. He is particularly known for his studies on the electrical control of spin polarization and valley-mediated effects, which have important applications in quantum computing and advanced material design.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Xuechao Zhai’s research has garnered recognition in both the academic and scientific communities. His work has been published in top journals, such as Nature Communications, Advanced Functional Materials, and Physical Review series. His contributions to the understanding of quantum transport and the development of low-power quantum devices have positioned him as a leading figure in the field of semiconductor physics. Zhai has also been awarded several prestigious National Natural Science Foundation projects and has earned accolades such as the “Youth Top Talent” program at Nanjing University of Science and Technology.

Research Skills 📚

His research is widely referenced in the scientific community, contributing significantly to advancements in quantum device design. Zhai’s proficiency in condensed matter theory, material characterization, and theoretical modeling allows him to approach complex problems from a multidisciplinary perspective. His work on spin-orbit coupling and valleytronics continues to shape current research trends.

Teaching Experience 📖

As a doctoral advisor and professor, Zhai has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. He emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, research innovation, and scientific rigor. His teaching approach integrates advanced theoretical concepts with hands-on experience in quantum device fabrication, preparing students to contribute to the next generation of quantum scientists and material engineers. Zhai’s leadership in the classroom is complemented by his role in guiding the future of applied physics research.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Xuechao Zhai has been recognized for his excellence in both research and teaching. His achievements include:

  • Four National Natural Science Foundation projects, including three general projects and one youth fund.
  • A Jiangsu Provincial Natural Science Foundation project.
  • Selection for the “Youth Top Talent” program at Nanjing University of Science and Technology in 2021.
  • Recognition as an outstanding young backbone teacher in the “Qinglan Project” of Jiangsu Province in 2019.

These accolades reflect his outstanding contributions to the scientific community and his commitment to nurturing young researchers.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Xuechao Zhai’s research is shaping the future of quantum devices, spintronics, and low-dimensional materials. His work on topological materials and quantum transport is paving the way for the development of next-generation quantum computing technologies. As he continues to make strides in quantum information encoding and device design, Zhai’s legacy will likely influence future advancements in material science and quantum physics. His ongoing dedication to pushing the boundaries of theoretical physics ensures that he will remain a key figure in the global scientific community.

Publications Top Notes

Realization of robust Ohmic contact for semiconducting black arsenic by coupling with graphene

  • Authors: Xinjuan Cheng, Xuechao Zhai
    Journal: Chinese Physics B, 2025

Large Anomalous Hall Effect in a Noncoplanar Magnetic Heterostructure

  • Authors: Anke Song, Jine Zhang, Yequan Chen, Rong Zhang, Xuefeng Wang
    Journal: Advanced Functional Materials, 2025

Defect-induced helicity dependent terahertz emission in Dirac semimetal PtTe2 thin films

  • Authors: Zhongqiang Chen, Hongsong Qiu, Xinjuan Cheng, Rong Zhang, Xuefeng Wang
    Journal: Nature Communications, 2024

Rashba spin splitting based on trilayer graphene systems

  • Authors: Xinjuan Cheng, Liangyao Xiao, Xuechao Zhai
    Journal: Physical Review B, 2024

Proximity-induced diversified magnetic states and electrically controllable spin polarization in bilayer graphene: Towards layered spintronics

  • Authors: Xuechao Zhai, Yaroslav M. Blanter
    Journal: Physical Review B, 2022

 

Xuechao Zhai | Chiral symmetry breaking | Best Researcher Award